Follow us on…

New Year’s Resolutions for Puppies

New Year’s Resolutions for Puppies

January 1, 2017

Happy New Year! Has a new puppy recently joined your family? If so, that’s wonderful! The next twelve months are going to be a crucial time in little Fido’s life. Your adorable little ball of fur has plenty to learn, and lots of growing to do, in the coming year. Here, a Lakeville, MN vet suggests some great resolutions for puppies.

Grow

Dogs grow very fast in that critical first year! Keep this growth spurt in mind when shopping for things like crates or doghouses. Purchase items that will fit your puppy when he is fully grown: otherwise, you’ll soon find yourself replacing things.

Visit The Doctor

Be sure to provide your puppy with proper veterinary care. Microchipping, spay/neuter surgery, vaccines, exams, and parasite control are all crucial to little Fido’s health. Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule.

Eat

All that growth can put a lot of strain on your puppy’s body. Proper nutrition is crucial for puppies! Be sure you are providing healthy, nourishing pet food. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Chew

As little Fido’s teeth grow in, he may want to nibble on anything and everything in sight. Offer your furry friend lots of suitable chew toys. You’ll also need to do some puppyproofing to keep your canine pal safe. Remove, protect, or secure anything potentially dangerous, such as plastic bags, wrappers, and ties; toxic plants; small items, like buttons, safety pins, and coins; wires and cords; chemicals; sharp objects; and medicine. Ask your vet for more information.

Make Friends

Little Fido should be exposed to lots of new friends experiences while he is still young. This will help him grow into a happy, friendly adult dog. Ask your vet for tips on socializing the little guy.

Learn New Things

Fido has a lot to learn! Your puppy will need to be housetrained, and will need to learn important commands like Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. Crate training is also recommended.

Play

Now the fun part! Provide little Fido with plenty of fun toys, and pay attention to him every day. Your adorable pet will fill your life with tail wags, puppy kisses, and unconditional love, which are all priceless gifts.

All of us here at Burnsville Parkway Animal Hospital, your Lakeville, MN pet clinic, want to wish you a wonderful and prosperous new year. Contact us anytime!